Australia ETA & Visitor Visa Guide 2026: How to Visit Down Under
Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world — and in 2026, the visa system has been streamlined to make visiting easier. Whether you qualify for the quick Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or need a full visitor visa, here's your complete guide to entering Australia.
Australia ETA (Electronic Travel Authority)
The ETA is the fastest way to get permission to visit Australia. It's available to citizens of select countries and can be applied for via the official Australian ETA app.
- Eligible nationalities: US, UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and most EU countries
- Cost: AUD $20 service charge
- Processing: Usually approved within minutes (can take up to 12 hours)
- Duration: Valid for 12 months, multiple entries of up to 3 months each
- Purpose: Tourism and business visits only — no work permitted
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
If your nationality doesn't qualify for the ETA, you'll need the Subclass 600 visitor visa. This is the standard tourist visa for Australia.
- Cost: AUD $190 (Tourist stream) or AUD $415 (Business stream)
- Processing: 20-30 days on average (can vary significantly)
- Duration: Up to 3, 6, or 12 months depending on the grant
- Requirements: Proof of funds, health insurance, genuine visitor intent, ties to home country
- Apply online: Through the ImmiAccount portal
eVisitor (Subclass 651)
The eVisitor is a free electronic visa for passport holders of certain European countries:
- Eligible: EU and EEA passport holders (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.)
- Cost: Free
- Duration: 12 months validity, stays up to 3 months per visit
- Processing: Usually within 1-2 days
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462)
For young travelers (18-30 or 18-35 depending on nationality) who want to work and travel in Australia:
- Duration: Up to 12 months (extendable with regional work)
- Cost: AUD $640
- Work rights: Full work rights, up to 6 months with one employer
- Eligible countries: UK, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Ireland, and 30+ others
Key Requirements for All Australian Visas
- Health: You may need a health examination depending on your country and length of stay. Declare any health conditions honestly.
- Character: Criminal history must be declared. Serious offenses can result in visa refusal.
- Insurance: Travel health insurance is strongly recommended — Australian healthcare is expensive for visitors.
- Return ticket: You should be able to show proof of onward travel or sufficient funds to purchase a return ticket.
- Passport validity: Must be valid for the duration of your intended stay.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
- Declare everything at customs: Australia has extremely strict biosecurity laws. Declare all food, plant material, and animal products. Fines start at AUD $626 and can reach $660,000.
- Apply early: Especially for Subclass 600, processing times can be unpredictable. Apply at least 6-8 weeks before travel.
- Use VisaCompass: Check which visa type your nationality qualifies for and get step-by-step application guidance.
- Don't overstay: Overstaying your visa in Australia results in a 3-year re-entry ban and potential detention.